Recent reports suggesting Shreyas Iyer as the frontrunner to succeed Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain have been refuted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The rumors gained traction after Iyer was notably absent from India's Asia Cup 2025 squad.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has denied that any discussions regarding Iyer's potential elevation to ODI captaincy have taken place. Speaking to Hindustan Times, Saikia stated, "That's news to me. There have been no such discussions".

While Iyer has demonstrated leadership qualities, having led different franchises to two consecutive IPL finals, the BCCI seems to be leaning towards Shubman Gill as the future ODI captain. Gill has already been appointed as the Test captain and is seen as a long-term leader due to his age and recent success. According to a BCCI official, "There is no way someone who has recently been appointed Test captain, found some success and has age on his side should not take over leadership in ODI cricket, when the time comes".

Iyer's omission from the Asia Cup squad raised eyebrows, especially considering his performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where he was India's top run-scorer with 243 runs. He also had a strong IPL 2025 season, scoring 604 runs. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed Iyer's exclusion, stating that only 15 players could be selected, and Iyer would have to wait for his chance.

The future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in ODI cricket is also under discussion. Reports suggest that they will have the final say on their ODI future and may play their last ODIs during the upcoming tour of Australia. The BCCI is expected to meet after the Asia Cup to discuss the roadmap, including discussions with Rohit and Kohli about their future in international cricket. Rohit Sharma, at 38, has already retired from T20I and Test cricket.